New Zealand has temporarily closed its embassy in Tehran and evacuated its diplomats due to a worsening security situation in Iran, the foreign ministry said on Friday.
Officials confirmed that diplomatic staff left Iran safely on commercial flights overnight, while embassy operations have been relocated to Ankara, Turkey. Wellington also reiterated its warning against all travel to Iran, urging New Zealanders still in the country to leave immediately.
The foreign ministry said its ability to provide consular assistance in Iran is now “extremely limited,” citing severe communication challenges. Citizens were advised to contact family members whenever possible.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters earlier condemned Iran’s violent response to widespread anti-government protests, describing the crackdown — including the killing of protesters — as unacceptable. He said Iran was repressing fundamental rights such as peaceful protest, freedom of expression and access to information.
New Zealand, Peters added, has conveyed its concerns directly to Iran’s embassy in Wellington and will continue to press the issue.
